As we turn dialogue into direction, SCIENCE TALK ’27 will include expanded content along several key themes in science communication and public engagement. This year we will feature sessions in five tracks:
- Content Creation & Public Engagement
- Science Policy & Civic Science
- Institutional & Industry Science Communication
- The Science of Science Communication
- Science Stories & More
We are recruiting Track Chairs with expertise in these topical areas to lead these tracks, in close collaboration with the ASC leadership team. Track Chair volunteers serve as the strategic leaders and ambassadors for their respective conference tracks. We are looking for experienced and passionate science communicators to curate high-quality content, foster year-round engagement within their topic area, recruit speakers, and help ensure their tracks deliver exceptional value to attendees before, during, and after the conference.
Responsibilities
Conference Program Development
- Shape the vision and scope of the assigned track in collaboration with ASC leadership.
- Refine track description, objectives, and learning outcomes.
- Identify emerging trends and priority topics.
- Recruit high-quality speakers and encourage proposal submissions.
- Establish criteria for and review and evaluate presentation proposals.
- Recommend session selections to the conference planning committee.
- Assist in identifying keynote, panel, workshop, and featured session opportunities.
Community Engagement
- Serve as the year-round ambassador for the track.
- Build relationships within the track’s professional community.
- Encourage participation from new voices and diverse perspectives.
- Engage with presenters before and after the conference.
Content Development
- Contribute or coordinate at least one blog article related to the track prior to the conference and at least one post-conference.
- Participate in one pre-conference virtual program (webinar, panel, or discussion) supporting the track.
- Identify timely news, research, or trends that can inform ASC content.
- Suggest future programming topics beyond the conference.
Marketing & Promotion
- Promote the Call for Presentations through professional networks.
- Share conference announcements and track updates on social media and LinkedIn.
- Encourage colleagues and organizations to attend Science Talk ‘27.
- Participate in short promotional videos or interviews, as requested.
Conference Participation
- Introduce sessions and recruit session moderators within the assigned track.
- Assist moderators and presenters as needed.
- Support attendee engagement and networking within the track.
- Provide feedback and recommendations following the conference.
Desired Qualifications
- Recognized expertise in the track subject area.
- Strong professional network within the science communication community.
- Excellent communication and collaboration skills.
- Enthusiasm for mentoring and building professional communities.
- Ability to commit approximately 6-8 hours per month during the planning cycle, with increased involvement in the weeks immediately preceding the conference.
Please submit a one-page PDF outlining your interest and relevant experience to info@sciencecomm.org. Review begins August 1 and continues until positions are filled.
